Bats Up Close-- Mist Netting Experience

Bats Up Close: An Evening with Dr. Russ Benedict

Join us for a super unique experience as we explore the secret lives of Iowa’s native bats! Dr. Russ Benedict, bat biologist and professor at Central College, brings 35 years of bat expertise right here in Dubuque County.

We’ll kick things off with a fun and fast-paced talk full of surprising bat trivia—like how many bat species live in Iowa, what echolocation really sounds like, and why these misunderstood mammals are essential (and endangered!) members of our ecosystem.

Then, as night falls, Dr. Benedict and his research team will demonstrate live bat mist netting—a safe, catch-and-release research method that lets us get an up-close look at real bats in action. You’ll see how scientists carefully study these nocturnal creatures and learn how bat conservation is helping protect biodiversity across Iowa and beyond.

This is a rare chance to witness science in action!

You may also like the following events from Dubuque County Conservation:

• This Tuesday, 8th July, 07:30 pm, Frog & Toad Survey in Asbury
• Next Thursday, 17th July, 11:00 am, Trash Clean Up in Peosta
• Next Friday, 18th July, 09:00 am, Birding Hike Series in Dubuque